Growing up, I don't recall ever seeing energy drinks at the grocery stores or gas stations. They could have been there, but as a kid, I never paid much attention. But as I got older and started working and going to college, that all changed. I was working two jobs, going to school full-time, in ballroom dancing, Reserves Officers Training. Than after graduating from college, I went into the military and coffee and energy drinks was pretty much what I lived on to help me get through the day. Even after getting out of the military, until a few months ago, I was still drinking energy drinks like crazy. The thing that really got me to quite drinking energy drinks, was it was starting to affect my health.
Energy Drinks Ingredients;
While the specific ingredients in energy drinks can vary depending on the brand and formulation, here is a list of common ingredients found in many energy drinks:
Caffeine: A stimulant that provides a temporary boost in energy and alertness. The caffeine content in energy drinks can range from about 80 mg to over 300 mg per serving.
Sugar: Energy drinks often contain added sugars for sweetness and quick energy. The amount of sugar can vary, but it's typically high, with some cans containing the equivalent of several teaspoons of sugar.
Taurine: An amino acid that is commonly included in energy drinks. Taurine is believed to support energy production and enhance exercise performance, although its exact effects are still under investigation.
Guarana: A plant extract that contains natural caffeine. It is often included in energy drinks to provide an additional source of caffeine.
B-vitamins: Energy drinks usually contain various B-vitamins, such as B3 (niacin), B5 (pantothenic acid), B6 (pyridoxine), and B12 (cobalamin). These vitamins play a role in energy metabolism and are often marketed as energy-boosting nutrients.
Herbal extracts: Some energy drinks may include herbal extracts like ginseng, gingko biloba, or yerba mate. These ingredients are believed to have stimulating effects and enhance mental focus.
Artificial sweeteners: Some energy drinks use artificial sweeteners like sucralose or aspartame instead of sugar to provide a sweet taste without the added calories.
Preservatives and additives: Energy drinks may contain preservatives, flavorings, and other additives to enhance taste, texture, and shelf life.
It's important to note that energy drinks can have significant health implications, especially when consumed in excessive amounts or by individuals with certain health conditions. The high caffeine and sugar content, combined with other stimulants, can lead to negative effects such as increased heart rate, dehydration, jitteriness, and disrupted sleep patterns. It's recommended to consume energy drinks in moderation and be aware of their potential risks.
Please keep in mind that the formulation and ingredients in energy drinks can vary, so it's always a good idea to check the specific product labels for accurate and detailed information on ingredients and their quantities.
By: Leah Balmer
CPT, CHWC, Certified Travel Wellness Coach
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